Donald Trump pauses higher tariffs for most countries but increases levies on China

United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday reduced the tariffs rate on imports from most countries to 10% for 90 days to provide time for trade negotiations.

The pause came hours after the so-called reciprocal tariffs imposed by the US on several countries took effect amid concerns of a broader trade war that could disrupt the global economy and trigger recession.

However, the US president said that he was increasing the tariffs imposed on imports from China to 125% with immediate effect, citing the “lack of respect” Beijing had shown to the global markets.

“At some point, hopefully in the near future, China will realise that the days of ripping off the USA, and other countries, is no longer sustainable or acceptable,” Trump said on social media.

Trump claimed that 75 countries had sought trade negotiations with Washington and had not retaliated.

Washington announced “reciprocal” tariffs on dozens of countries, including a 26% “discounted” levy on India, on April 2.

Trump had repeatedly said he intended to impose a reciprocal tax on India, among others, citing high tariffs the countries impose on foreign goods. He has already imposed tariffs on a range of products from Canada, Mexico and China.

The US president had planned 34% tariffs on Chinese products in addition to the 20% rate imposed in March. However, he vowed to add another 50% levy after China...

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